Yesterday I had to put down my wife's Shepherd/Chow companion, Bogart. He could no longer use his back legs. For 12 years, he guarded her and the house. I never worried when I was away, I knew Bogart would protect her with his life. He took on javelina in her defense, and ran off more than one suspicious character. He never marked in the house, wouldn't even crap on the concrete. Independent, assertive and intelligent. If I had to describe him in one word it would be dignity.
When my wife made the decision, I called my vet (we've used them for 25 years) He agreed to come to our house, with a tech, and do it here. I didn't want Bogart's last moments to be filled with trauma, travel and strangers. The three of us carried him outside under the shade of his favorite mesquite tree. Even with no use of his hind legs, he did his best to help. I held his head during the process. He gently licked my hand as I watched him close those piercing golden eyes for the last time -- reassuring me that it was OK, and that he was ready. It made me feel a lot better to be with him in the end.
I know there are a lot of pet owners out there, many with large dogs. Having the vet come out to the house was the best decision we made. They even took him away. The whole process took 20 minutes and minimized trauma to Bogart, to me & to my wife. Whatever it costs, I will do the same for my bloodhound.
When my wife made the decision, I called my vet (we've used them for 25 years) He agreed to come to our house, with a tech, and do it here. I didn't want Bogart's last moments to be filled with trauma, travel and strangers. The three of us carried him outside under the shade of his favorite mesquite tree. Even with no use of his hind legs, he did his best to help. I held his head during the process. He gently licked my hand as I watched him close those piercing golden eyes for the last time -- reassuring me that it was OK, and that he was ready. It made me feel a lot better to be with him in the end.
I know there are a lot of pet owners out there, many with large dogs. Having the vet come out to the house was the best decision we made. They even took him away. The whole process took 20 minutes and minimized trauma to Bogart, to me & to my wife. Whatever it costs, I will do the same for my bloodhound.

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